NVIDIA’s AI chips are set to enter the UAE market, as reports suggest that Microsoft has obtained the necessary export license to deliver the American tech stack to the Middle East. This move signals a potential new horizon for technology investments in the region.
Microsoft Leads Charge in Sending NVIDIA’s AI Chips to the UAE
While the trade tension between NVIDIA and China remains unresolved, a fresh revenue opportunity has emerged for the company. Sources have stated that Microsoft has been granted approval to export NVIDIA’s AI chips to the UAE. Microsoft President, Brad Smith, discussed this development, emphasizing that the approval followed rigorous regulatory checks. This approval paves the way for significant opportunities for cloud service providers and AI enterprises in the Middle East.
You cannot get those export licences unless you’re able to meet the requirements that have been imposed by the US government. We earned it by satisfying very stringent cyber security, physical security and other security requirements.
UAE as a Growing Focus for American Tech Investments
The Middle East is becoming increasingly central to American tech strategies aimed at market dominance. Since President Trump’s engagement with Gulf states, companies like NVIDIA have inked numerous agreements with regional entities such as G42 and HUMAIN AI. Following the licensing approval, Microsoft plans to ramp up its investments in the UAE, with a projected expenditure of $7.9 billion between 2026 and 2029, highlighting the growing importance of NVIDIA’s AI chips in the region.
Given NVIDIA’s recent challenges with China, access to Gulf markets is likely a strategic focus for the company, considering the investment opportunities presented by countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Although the previous administration was hesitant to export advanced AI chips to the UAE, Microsoft has now met the necessary government standards. This development raises the question of whether the Middle East could ultimately match China’s revenue potential for NVIDIA, though it remains speculative at this point.